After Pride Gala flops
What does St. Pete Pride and Swing Tyme Entertainment have in common? Nothing, really. The “Lifestyle Promoter” company advertised its After Festival Gala at Jannus Live throughout the festival. A 7 p.m. “Queen of the Night” drag pageant was to feature a judging panel of Logo and Bravo star Pandora Boxx, St. Pete Pride Executive Director Chris Rudisill and Watermark Editor Steve Blanchard. But a weak crowd (tickets were $25 a pop) and delay after delay moved the beginning of the pageant well past 10 p.m. Even the normally excitable Christine O’Leary left early when Jannus staff wouldn’t allow the St. Pete Pride comedian upstairs to socialize with the board. Eventually, Rudisill and Blanchard had to move on to other St. Pete Pride commitments, but even with paltry attendance the pageant went on and the crown went to Maya VanCartier. Rudisill said he apologized to the participants for the late start and said he doesn’t expect to team with the promotion company in the future.
Steven Donahue eyeing Orlando for new club
It looks like the G. Bar/Honey Pot franchise could expand into the Orlando area. According to club owner Steven Donahue, he is actively searching for a location in Orlando to open a new hot spot. While dishing during the recent Andy Bell concert on July 4 at The Honey Pot, Donahue said he had a location in mind on Colonial, but that the deal fell through. He didn’t say when or where the new club would open its doors, but he did seem committed to expanding his entertainment style into central Florida.
Stephanie Shippae eyeing TV show chances
Hey Everybody! Tampa’s Queen of all Queens is throwing her hat into the ring to land a new talk show. The iconic performer has posted her audition video for a chance to host a show on the new Oprah Network coming out next year. She has sent out messages on Facebook inviting friends to cast their vote. Unfortunately, voting had ended by press time so there’s no way readers can add more numbers to her tally. However, we’re hoping her popularity and the power of social networking will make her a finalist. To see her video, visit MyOwn.Oprah.com/Audition and search for her name. Results of the online voting will be released late this summer.
